Sturm Graz is fighting for the Champions League – and a windfall of millions. © APA / EXPA/UWE WINTER

CL money rain in sight: Sturm Graz ready for Bodø/Glimt

Sturm Graz is once again pushing the envelope for the million-euro league. The only and final hurdle before Sturm Graz's fifth Champions League appearance in their history is the Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt.

August 19, 2025

By: apa/an

“We are ready and want to lay the foundation for progressing,” said coach Jürgen Säumel before the play-off first leg on Wednesday (21.00 p.m.) in northern Norway.

"We're feeling really good and are determined to take this step into the Champions League," explained Jon Gorenc Stankovic. The midfield anchor was one of several to mention Glimt's impressive home strength: "We'll try to come home with a good result. It's only the first half in Norway."

Europa League semi-finalist awaits

Either way, Sturm will have to dress warmly. Eleven degrees and rain are forecast for match day. The Norwegians have already upset some big names on the artificial turf there. AS Roma were humiliated 2021-1 under Jose Mourinho in 6, and victories against FC Porto, Besiktas, and Lazio are not long ago. Since last year, Bodø has been the first city in the Arctic Circle to host a European semifinal. They only lost to eventual Europa League champions Tottenham.

Sturm coach Jürgen Säumel believes he and his team are ready. © APA / EXPA/UWE WINTER

Sturm is in for a shower of millions. The entry fee for the premier class alone is €18,62 million, and each point earned is worth €700.000. Added to this are television marketing and other revenues. Last year, when Sturm finished 30th out of 36 participants, revenues amounted to approximately €30 million.

If they are eliminated by Glimt, the Graz team will play in the Europa League. While the entry fee (€4,31 million) and the points bonus (€150.000) are comparatively meager, some fans may find some consolation in the venue. Sturm Graz will have to move to Klagenfurt again for the Champions League, including the play-off second leg, because the Merkur Arena, owned by the city of Graz, still does not meet UEFA requirements. Europa League matches, however, will take place in Graz, the club confirmed.